Crossed-out wheeled bin

How to read it

In the EU, the WEEE Directive defines the crossed-out wheeled bin as the symbol for the separate collection of electrical and electronic equipment, and requires producers to mark their products with it, preferably following the European standard EN 50419. Where the size or function of a product makes that necessary, the symbol goes on the packaging, the instructions and the warranty instead. The Batteries Directive uses the same symbol for batteries. Recycle Now, the UK campaign run by WRAP, explains that it means electrical items are not meant for the household waste bin, and can be recycled through retailers and recycling centres.

Also searched as: crossed out bin, do not throw in trash symbol, WEEE symbol.

The date mark

UK regulations also require equipment to carry a date mark, so that it can be identified as having been placed on the market after 13 August 2005.

On batteries

The same bin appears on batteries, sometimes with the chemical symbols Pb, Cd or Hg beneath it.

Differences by country or standard

The symbol comes from EU law. The UK keeps the same requirement in its own regulations for electrical equipment and for batteries.